May 2015 Keeping Golfers Connected in TN, KY, MS, AL, NC
May 2015
PGA major finds its way back to French Lick Pages 2-3
Inside!! 4 17 22
Timber Creek: Coastal golf with a Carolina flavor Wide Open: Tennessee State Open field takes on Fairvue Plantation Makeover: Improvements help Stonebridge gain momentum
2
TEE TIMES
May 2015
www.teetimespaper.com
French Lick to host Senior PGA Championship presented by KitchenAid Colin Montgomerie
Tee Times report
Resort, said. “With the championship being broadcast to 250 It hasn’t taken long for the Pete million homes in 160 countries Dye Course at French Lick Resort and territories, we have a great to earn world-wide acclaim. opportunity to show the world The Indiana property was named what Southern Indiana is all “Best New Public Course” in 2009 about.” by Golf Digest and already has Dave Harner, the Director of hosted 14 championships since Golf for French Lick courses, is it opened five years ago. More re- excited to showcase his venue to cently, it hit No. 93 on the publi- a worldwide audience. cations list of top 100 courses in “It has been 91 years since the America. PGA has held a major championNow, it’s going to a new level. ship at French Lick,” Harner said. The Pete Dye Course is hosting “Think about it. Before TV, before the 76th Senior PGA Champion- the interstate highway system, beship from May 19-24. fore 99 percent of the population And club officials couldn’t be was even born … and now to be the happier to bring the first major site of the 2015 Senior PGA Chamchampionship to the pionship presented by facility. KitchenAid is truly an “We are honored historic event of great to be a part of this magnitude for our great golf classic and communities, and all are extremely appreof Indiana. ciative of the recogWalter Hagen won nition and attention the 1924 PGA Champithis championship onship on the Donald has brought to the Ross course in French area and the southLick. The 1959 and ern region of Indi1960 LPGA Championana,” said Stephen L. Steve Ferguson, Chair- ships were played in man of the Board, Ferguson, president French Lick. The Pete Cook Group Inc. of the French Lick Dye Course hosted the
Pete Dye Course, Hole No. 2
Dave Harner, Director of Golf 2010 PGA Professional Championship. “We are truly honored to host the Senior PGA Championship and thank KitchenAid and the PGA for having the faith in French Lick Resort and the entire state of Indiana to bring the event here,” Harner added. Defending champion Colin Montgomerie made his first site visit to French Lick in late April and was impressed with what he saw. “I’ve played a lot of Pete Dye
courses and this is right up there,” he told Jody Demling of PGA.com. “It’s right up there with the best of them. The golf course is a championship golf course in every way you could imagine. “This is a terrific, terrific venue.”
www.teetimespaper.com
May 2015
Professionals who played the 1924 PGA Championship at the Donald Ross Course pose in front of the clubhouse
Terrific is one word. Challenging a smile to the face of the defendmight be an even better descrip- ing champion and the rest of the tion. The Pete Dye Course can field was the announcement that play to as much as 8,100 yards, the PGA of America is upping although the field of 156 players the purse for the tournament. In likely won’t encounter it at that 2014, a total purse of $2.1 million yardage. It’s more likely Mont- was up for grabs. This year, prize gomerie and his fellow competi- money has increased to $2.75 miltors will play it to a more reason- lion, with the winner taking home able 7,147 yards. Dye created a a hefty $495,000. Second-place money is $297,000 and masterpiece cut through third place will earn the hilltops of the Hoo$187,000. sier National Forest that “We are pleased that will challenge the best the purse reflects the senior players in the proud tradition of this world. major championship “There’s not a weak and the outstanding hole on the course,” field that it will attract,” Montgomerie told DemPGA President Derek ling at the tournament’s Sprague said. “We are Media Day in late April. excited to join a tre“There’s a bunch of good Bryan Karns, mendous host site in ones but not a weak one Championship counting down the days out here.” Director to another ‘Walk With Bringing even more of
TEE TIMES
3
volunteers are an integral part of hosting a major championship, and we are looking forward to welcoming all of them to French Lick, Indiana this May.” Tickets start at just $15. Admission is free for youth 17 and under with a ticketed adult. All military members and their immediate families also will get in free to the championship. As the tournament nears, the only question remaining is
History’ for what we believe will be one of our greatest championships.” Championship Director Bryan Karns said the tournament provides an opportunity for fans to see the best players in seWalter Hagan won the nior golf tackle an 1924 PGA Championship outstanding golf course. “This is an incredible opportunity to see the stron- whether Montgomerie will hoist gest field in senior golf in beauti- the Alfred S. Bourne Trophy for a ful French Lick at the world-re- second consecutive year. So often nowned Pete Dye Course,” he said. a bridesmaid in major champion“Without the help of our 1,500 ships will competing on the reguvolunteers, we would not be able lar tour, Monty would love nothto create a world-class event for ing more than to continue to ceour fans and a memorable major ment his legacy as one of the top championship for our players. Our players of his generation.
4
May 2015
TEE TIMES
www.teetimespaper.com
Timber Creek: A gem in lower Alabama By Gregg Dewalt Bradley hasn’t looked back since, Rob Bradley, PGA Tee Times Editor and Timber Creek has carved out a Professional and owner One person’s economic downturn can good niche in the coastal-rich golf be another person’s uptick. mecca of lower Alabama. And that’s where Timber Creek owner “I love it,” he said. Rob Bradley comes into play. Timber Creek has several things If not for the economy going south in going in its favor, but paramount is 2008, Bradley might not have been able its location just a couple of minutes to purchase Timber Creek. And now the off of the I-10 corridor. That makes property is one of the premier golf des- it easily accessible to anyone travtinations along the Gulf Coast. Featuring eling east toward the Florida pan27 holes, the Earl Stone design attracts handle or west toward Mississipa regular clientele that includes daily pi, Louisiana or Texas. It’s 14 miles fee players and members while also from Mobile, 35 miles from Gulf grabbing its share of the lucrative tourism industry. could accommodate other “It’s been a life-long dream of players. Bradley said the famine,” Bradley said in a recent cility does about 90 events a phone interview. “I’ve been puryear. suing this since I was 15 years “That’s the beauty of 27 old. I knew then what I wanted to holes,” he said. do.” with over 5500 square feet / Also, the course is distinct. Bradley was working as a direc- Clubhouse award winning golf shop and dining room Stone created a masterpiece tor of golf at a course in Louisiana by incorporating elevation in 2008 but had an eye on the changes and routing it through coastal Alabama market. He began to Shores and 44 miles from Pensacola. explore opportunities when the econoConsisting of three nines (Magnolia, thick, lush magnolias, dogmy turned. Dogwood, Pines) enables Bradley to “Everything took a hit,” he said. “But, in cater to his membership and daily fee No. 6 Magnolia a way that was one of the reasons I was players and to court outings. In backable to acquire Timber Creek because to-back weeks recently, Timber Creek the property became more affordable.” hosted two 200-player outings and still
Swan Lake
a player's course with beautiful vistas and friendly staff.
Weekdays - Mon.-Fri. $28 w/cart Weekends & Holidays $35 w/cart We love our Seniors/55+ Call for your special rate
(931)
648-0479
581 581 Dunbar Dunbar Cave Cave Road Road Clarksville, Clarksville, Tennessee Tennessee 37043 37043
Take Take I-24w. I-24w. for for a a short short scenic scenic drive drive to to exit exit #4, #4, just just minutes minutes north north of of Nashville. Nashville. Jeff Vaughn, PGA Professional
usually a way to recover.” Mills said he like that the course is straight forward – no tricks. “There really aren’t any blind shots -- the course is pretty much right in view and the golfer knows what they have to do to execute a good shot and those good shots are usually rewarded,” he said. Bradley is proud that Timber Creek is an all-encompassing facility. He calls it an “old-fashioned course.” “We have a fully stocked golf shop and have been named merchandiser No. 7 Dogwood, challenging par 5
of the year twice since I have been here,” Bradley said. “We have three professionals on staff; myself, Andy Ray, and head pro Tommy Foxwood. We have club fitting and repair. We offer video lessons. We have tournaments and outings. We have everything you need here. Lots of businesses don’t have the hard goods anymore.” woods and pines. If a player Mills said he noticed the didn’t know they were in amenities during his visit. Alabama, TimberCreek could “The Director of Golf Andy easily pass for a course in the Ray has been there over 20 Carolinas. years -- starting as a cart boy “We are at the lower end of so he knows the place inside the Appalachian mountain, and out and the organization and we have large hills and is excellent and everyone Andy Ray, PGA rolling terrain,” Bradley said. that works there is on the “There are some breathtakProfessional, same page as far as providing views.” ing excellent service,” Mills Director of Golf Wayne Mills, a golf writer said. “The bag drop, pro shop who splits his time between and starters are all right on Florida and New Hampshire, recently the stick which makes for a pleasant visited Timber Creek and said he found day from beginning to end. it to be a world-class facility. “The food and beverage is up to the “Timber Creek is a very good golf facil- same high standards,” he continued. ity for about any level of golfer,” he said. “There is plenty of coverage by the “It is as good a public golf facility as cart girls, plenty of room in the spayou will find especially for the money. cious dining area, a real nice bar and With 27 holes Timber Creek has a lot of the menu has a great many items -- a flexibility for large groups, leagues and lot you wouldn’t expect for a public golf heavy play periods. The Earl Stone- course.” designed course is laid out to contain It adds up to an experience golfers shots back into the fairway or the green heading to the Gulf Coast shouldn’t pass rather than shed them into the rough up. or hazards. There is some trouble to For information about Timber Creek, be found if you get really wayward but go to golftimbercreek.com.
May 2015
www.teetimespaper.com
From tHE Editor By Gregg Dewalt
Newest rivalry captures our imagination As the calendar turns to May, the weather is heating up, the ball is flying a little farther, the greens are rolling truer and golf courses are greening up nicely. Finally. Hopefully, the cruel winter will pave the way for a great golf season. And, that means it’s time to get the rust off your clubs and get out and enjoy playing and practicing. It’s already been an eventful spring, with Jordan Spieth announcing his presence as the next big thing in the game by taking apart Augusta National and turning Sunday at the Masters into a snoozefest. With Tiger Woods seemingly an afterthought, golf gurus are force feeding us Rory McIlroy and Spieth, the young gun from Texas, as the newest great golf rivalry. Golf rivalries have been a part of the game ever since journalists began writing about it. In my lifetime, there have been among others, Arnold Palmer vs. Jack Nicklaus, Tom Watson
PUBLISHER Joe Hall pgegolf@bellsouth.net EDITOR Gregg Dewalt
SENIOR EDITOR David Widener widecard@aol.com
ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Carol Hall teetimescarol@bellsouth.net
TEE TIMES
players into rivalries. Did Jack like Arnie? Why doesn’t Tiger like Phil? The best-case scenario for the game and for fans is when the players like McIlroy, Spieth, Tiger and Phil are in contention at the same tournament. But it’s rare when we see final-round pairings featuring them playing together. That’s when pro-
vs. Jack Nicklaus, David Duval vs. Tiger Woods, Tiger vs. Phil Mickelson and Tiger vs. McIlroy. Everybody likes a juicy story line, and it’s easy to turn those top-tier
Jordan Spieth
5
fessional golf is at its best – when Mickelson makes a shot and McIlroy answers with “anything you can do, I can do better.” It’s scintillating. It’s dramatic and it creates a high level of interest. But one of the great things about golf is that each week, there are 156 players in the field with the ability to win. Many are known only to family, friends and hard-core fans, but they are out there grinding away. And when they do catch lightning in a bottle and win, they can claim to be the best golfer in the world that week. So, yeah, 21-year-old Spieth vs. 25-year-old McIlroy has joined the fray as golf’s newest rivalry. It will last only as long as they are at the top of their games and winning majors. Hopefully, it will be an enduring rivalry. In the meantime, get out and enjoy game this season. After all, tour rivalries might be interesting to watch but there’s not much better than actually playing the game. Keep it in the fairway, Gregg Dewalt Tee Times editor
Your Home Course Rory McIlroy
GRAPHIC DESIGNER Jon Hamilton jonh2520@att.net
TECHNICAL ADVISOR Jimmy Phillips
DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Susan Lawrence
PRINTING Franklin Web Printing Company FOUNDER - Joey Smith
Established in 1991, Tee Times is published monthly, ten times per year. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is strictly prohibited.
P.O. Box 41293 • Nashville, TN 37204 • Phone: 615-331-1078 • Fax: 1-866-579-4932 Member: Golf Writers Association of America, International Network of Golf, Golf Travel Writers of America
(615)Ê449-7272 www.pinecreekgolf.netÊ 3VN\L 9VHK 4[ 1\SPL[ ;5
6
TEE TIMES
May 2015
www.teetimespaper.com
May 2015
www.teetimespaper.com
TEE TIMES
7
There’s more than golf with Unique European Travel By Dan Krull Tee Times Contributor
Castel Conturbia G.C, Italy
From start to finish you are swept off your feet as you fall under the spell of old world charm. You will be transported back in time to a land of verdant hills, quaint historical plazas and squares, winding lanes, narrow cobblestone streets, baroque palaces, and monasteries and cathedrals each with their unique architecture and design. You’ll tour majestic medieval cities and fortresses built in bygone eras, visit iconic museums, sip wine or taste olive oil at small renowned vineyards and orchards, and immerse yourself in the local culture, art and cuisine while making new friends with locals as you dine in a cozy restaurants. You’ll also play golf when you choose at the finest clubs and resorts each carefully chosen for their excellent history, design and playability. Ah, a bucket list-a trip across the pond with the boys, 36 holes a day chasing birdies, wet clothes, playing cards, the taverns, your buddy snoring and then the thought as you head home - it would be nice to come back one day with that special one and really see this country. Many companies offer what I term “dropped and dumped” couples golf trips. You arrive at an airport meet the representative, get your car and directions to the choice hotel or resort along with a list of local sites and restaurants to visit as time permits. Each day you play golf while your partner sits at the pool or spa, and in the evening you eat at the resort or you may venture into the nearest town. Maybe if you finish golf early you can take the time to see a local attraction. As avid golfers and travelers, Unique European Travel (www. uniqueeuropeantravel.com) decided to take a better approach — couples small group full time guided tours. “Castles, Culture and Golf” features golf at historic, marquee courses while the non-golfing partner is taken on a guided special tour. Later in the afternoon or evening you share a planned adventure toLjubljana, Slovenia
gether before retiring to a cozy four-poster bed. Some of the tours have “break” days when couples can spend the day together at castles, vineyards, historical cities or other cultural sites. Our tours are designed so that golfing couples, couples where only one plays golf, and their nongolfing friends can enjoy wonderful and romantic trips that transport you back in time to the land of the Viking, Roman, Venetian and Habsburg empires. Whatever you choose: • The “Old Sod” and the history and country sides of Ireland, Scotland, or Wales; • The romance, hilltop villages, Mediterranean and wines of France;
• One of our Italian adventures: Italian Lakes of “Lombardy and Piedmont” or our “Best of Tuscany and Umbria;” • Historic Slovenia (2015 European golf destination) continuing through Austria to Venice; • “The Capitals” — Budapest, Bratislava, Vienna and Prague. Each will be a wonderful, romantic and unique experience. All of the planned tours can be modified to fit your needs and budget and can be priced and taken selfguided if desired.
Karlstejn Castle G.C., Prague
Distinguished bold style, incomparable good taste.
Belle Meade Premium Cigars & Gifts Belle Meade Plaza 4518 Harding Road, Nashville, TN 37205 Piazza del Duomo, Milan
615-297-7963
8
May 2015
TEE TIMES
Around Nashville Fairways John Holmes Assistant Director of Parks
A guide to Metro Parks courses We’ve finally have had several days of sunshine and great temps, and it is time for us to put chilling terms like ‘winterkill’ and ‘bitter cold,’ and ‘rainy days’ behind us. For golfers, spring is finally here. Like everybody, our superintendents and their crews get tired of battling the bad weather. But they do great work to keep Metro Parks ‘seven magnificent courses in great shape. Here is a guide to Metro Parks courses:
Recently, we had the pleasure of dedicating the long overdue Shively Clubhouse at Percy Warner Golf Course, and that has been a plus for this nine-hole course that now offers golf carts for those who want to have the option to ride. This clubhouse not only serves our golfers, but those who want to enjoy the greenways and the Percy Warner Parks. If you haven’t visited McCabe Golf Course in the last few years, great things await you.
Located in west Nashville in the Sylvan Park area, McCabe Golf Course boasts 27 holes. The original 18 holes were built in 1942 and have large, tree-lined fairways and sand bunkers. An additional nine-hole course was added several years later to complete the 27-hole course. McCabe can be very challenging for the experienced golfer, yet also provides a great ven-
ue for beginning golfers. This popular course underwent a major renovation in May 2007 which included rebuilt green complexes, a double row irrigation system and rebuilt tee complexes. In 2007, the North Course was redesigned so that a driving range could be built at the course. The driving range opened in March 2012 and features 27 hitting stations on a two-level tee. It has target greens in the landing areas and provides an outstanding practice venue for golfers of all skill levels. Their 27 holes boast outstanding round numbers that will rival courses anywhere in our region.
Two Rivers Golf Course is located in the heart of Donelson, east of downtown Nashville. Our course is a few miles from the famous Grand Ole Opry, the Opry Mills Shopping Mall and the Nashville International Airport. An impressive view of the Nashville skyline can be seen from the 8th hole. The layout of this eighteen-hole course is very challenging from the back tees, but can be enjoyed by the average golfer from our other three tee locations. Originally built in 1973, the greens and tees were redesigned in 1991. This course is proud of its many associations and to those that love the layout and location, their home course .
Ted Rhodes Golf Course is situated on the banks of the Cumberland River in north Nashville. The course
was originally called Cumberland Golf Course and was once a nine-hole course. The first nine at Ted Rhodes was built in 1953. In May 1992, the facility was re-designed and expanded from nine to 18 holes. The links style course incorporates lakes and bunkers to provide a pleasurable round for each golfer. The greens at Ted Rhodes are large and offer a big target for your approach shot. At Ted Rhodes, golf and exercise go hand in hand as it is an easy course to walk. Also, while enjoying a round at Ted Rhodes, a golfer can view some spectacular wildlife. The lakes and river provide a natural habitat for turtles, fish, muskrats and occasional family of beaver in an urban setting.
www.teetimespaper.com
Harpeth Hills 2424 Old Hickory Blvd. • 615-862-8493
McCabe 46th & Murphy Rd. • 615-862-8491
Percy Warner Forrest Park Dr. • 615-352-9958
Shelby 20th & Fatherland • 615-862-8474
Two Rivers Two Rivers Parkway • 615-889-2675
Ted Rhodes 1901 Ed Temple Blvd. • 615-862-8463
VinnyLinks 2009 Sevier Street • 615-880-1720
Shelby Golf Course is located in historic east Nashville; it opened in 1924 and was the first municipal golf course in Nashville. The 18-hole course is located in beautiful Shelby Park and incorporates rolling hills and picturesque landscape into your golfing experience. Bermuda tif dwarf greens were planted in April 2006. All skill levels can enjoy a round at Shelby. The course has been host to the School Days Junior Golf Tournament, which is the longest running golf tournament in the state of Tennessee. Golfers will meet friendly faces and have a wonderful playing experience at Shelby Golf Course.
Harpeth Hills Golf Course - Blanketing the rolling hills of Percy Warner Park; Harpeth Hills is widely respected as one of Tennessee’s top public golf facilities. Originally designed in 1965, the course was rebuilt in 1991 to enhance its playability as well as showcase the natural landscape. The par-72 championship layout is surrounded by a natural wildlife habitat and offers a challenge to golfers of all levels. In 1991 Harpeth Hills became a regional qualifying site for the USGA Public Links Championship. Boasting one of the most picturesque
Metro Parks Nashvillefairways.com
views in Nashville, you will find Harpeth Hills’ clubhouse an enjoyable place to relax after a round of golf. This landmark course will be celebrating its 50th anniversary in July and we will have more to come on this in the July issue.
Vinny Links G.C. - Nestled on the Cumberland River in east Nashville, the VinnyLinks Golf Course is the home of The First Tee of Middle Tennessee. In 2000, The VinnyLinks Golf Course at Shelby Park opened to provide a venue for junior golfers to experience the game of golf. The VinnyLinks is open April – September and is a nine-hole, 1,210 yard, par three course. Former U. S. Open winner Lou Graham honed his game as a youngster at the Riverview Golf Course that was to later become the VinnyLinks. Our maintenance staff maintains this nine-hole course both for the First Tee of Middle Tennessee and for the public as well. Until next time, keep it in the fairwayJohn Holmes.
May 2015
www.teetimespaper.com
TEE TIMES
9
Drive, Chip and Putt Championship National Finals Eighty junior golfers representing 30 U.S. states and three Canadian provinces earned an invitation to Augusta National Golf Club to compete in the second annual Drive, Chip and Putt Championship National Finals, played on Sunday, April 5, 2015, prior to the start of the Masters Tournament. A joint initiative by the Masters Tournament, the United States Golf Association and the PGA of America, the Drive, Chip and Putt Championship is a free nationwide junior competition focusing on the three fundamental skills employed in golf, tapping the creative and competitive spirit of girls and boys, ages 7- 15. Results of the 10 regional qualifiers – the third and final stage leading to the 2015 National Finals – yielded five returning competitors from last year’s event. Kelly Xu of Santa Monica, Calif., is the lone returning champion, who will compete in the Girls 10-11 Division after winning the Girls 7-9 Division in Augusta last April. The road to Augusta began with local qualifying in May, June and July, held at more than 250 sites throughout the United States. The top three scorers per venue, in each of four age categories
in separate boys and girls divisions, advanced to 49 sub-regional qualifiers in August. Two juniors in each age and gender division then competed at the regional level through September. The top finisher from each regional site’s age/gender divisions earned a place in the National Finals, which was broadcast live on Golf Channel. All local, sub-regional and regional qualifiers were conducted by the 41 Sections of the PGA of America, with PGA Professionals providing support at each facility hosting a qualifier Among those eighty juniors were three from Tennessee, Ashley Gilliam, Manchester, TN (,age group 12-13), Kynadie Adams, Gallatin, TN.(age group 10-11) and Toby Wilson, Bartlett, TN.(age group 1415). These youngsters represented our state very well. Imagine the practices, the travel to the qualifying, sites, sub-regional, regional, and at last the National Finals. These juniors and their families got to walk the hallowed grounds of Augusta National, meet and mingle with the PGA Professional touring pros. The competition was fierce, for the rest of the story…tune in to the June issue and see how our Tennessee juniors came out at Augusta Kynadie Adams Gallatin, TN Age Group: 10 - 11
2014 Nashville Golf Classic, a fun filled day for all at Hermitage Golf Course
Nashville Golf Classic continues Special Olympics support
Tee Times report Special Olympics Tennessee provides The 40th Nashville Golf Classic is scheduled year-round sports training and athletic for June 11 at the Hermitage Golf Course. competition in a variety of OlympicAs usual, the tournament benefits Special style events for children and adults with Olympics Tennessee. As the longest intellectual disabilities, giving them contributing donor to the Special Olympics, continuing opportunities to develop physical the tournament has donated nearly $1 million fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy to the organization. and participate in sharing of gifts, skills and This year’s festivities begin June 10 friendship with their families, other Special with a welcome party at the Tennessee Olympics athletes and the community. National Guard Armory, with music by The For information, call 615-329-1375 or go to Chessmen and catered by Noshville New York specialolympicstn.org or nashvillegolfclassic. Delicatessen. org. Lunch and dinner will be provided for players, along with special 40th anniversary goody bags and Nike Bucks. There are morning and afternoon shotgun starts. Cost is $140 per player. Sponsorship packages are available at different levels ranging from $1,500 platinum 2013 Nashville Golf Classic with Olympian to $300 bronze. There also will Scott Hamilton and Special Olympians be a silent and live auction.
Ashley Gilliam Manchester, TN Age Group: 12 - 13
Toby Wilson Bartlett, TN Age Group: 14 - 15
10
o o
May 2015
TEE TIMES
www.teetimespaper.com
Opinion By David Widener
Member Golf Writers Association of America
PGA Tour needs the Young Guns R
emember when Jack Nicklaus, ArAnother young face playing great golf is 26nold Palmer and Gary Player domi- year-old Rickie Fowler. He won his first PGA nated the PGA Tour in the 1960-1970 event in 2012 in a playoff at the Wells Fargo Era? Jack won 68 tournaments dur- Championship. In 2014, he posted 10 Top 10 ing that time span, winning seven in 1972 and finishes and was unbelievable in the majors, 1973. Arnie won eight times in 1960, seven tying for second in the U.S. Open and Open times in 1963 and six in 1961. Player won 10 Championship, sharing third place in the PGA tournaments during the 1960 decade and 12 Championship, and tying for fifth in the Masin the 1970s including four majors. Together ters. He was 12th this year at the Masters. the three won 159 tournaments, including 34 Spieth’s victory in this year’s Masters was, majors with Jack’s 73 and 18 leading the way. well Masterful. He led wire-to-wire, the first Remember Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson player to do so since Raymond Floyd in 1976, being the dominating golfers in the 1990s and set the 36-hole record (14-under 130) and 54into the first part of this decade? With age (Ti- hole record (16-under), made the most birdger turns 40 in December and Phil will be 45 ies for the tournament (28), and became the in June) their wins are fewer now, but Tiger youngest player to lead after the first round by has 79 wins and 14 majors while Phil has 42 shooting the lowest opening round by a chamand five. Woods won pion (64). 15 tournaments, in“It’s hard not to like and cluding the Masters in pull for the guy,� Mickelhis first year on tour son said. in 1999 and he added Dan Jenkins, a fellow nine more victories in Texan who at 85 is the 2000. Mickelson joined dean of American sportsthe tour in 1992 and writers, tweeted “Jordan won four times in 1996, Spieth might be the per2000 and 2005. fect Texas pro: the focus Being a senior citizen, I and will of Hogan, the do remember. However, likability of Nelson, and old such domination might the putting stroke of Arn d, feu st ate Golf’s gre us be hard to achieve in Crenshaw.� Palmer and Jack Nickla the future thanks to a That’s what makes bunch of talented young Spieth special. He seems to be a perfect role guns now on the PGA Tour who are shooting model. He, along with the other young guns, lights out. appears to be drawing more young kids into Two new faces, Rory McIlroy of Northern golf, which is good for the sport. I discovered Ireland, and Texan Jordan Spieth, are ranked such while in Texas on a recent trip where I one-two in the current World Golf Rankings. spent some time with my 10-year-old grandMcIlroy, who just turned 26, already has won son, Hayden Stallings. 11 PGA events that includes four majors and Hayden plays football, baseball, basketball has 10 European Tour victories. and also played soccer when younger. Although The 21-year-old Spieth helped University of I have brought up the game of golf many times, Texas to the 2012 national title then turned he hasn’t shown any interest up to this point. pro. He was named the PGA Tour Rookie of the However, in talking about my job with Tee Year in 2013, chalking up his first win in the Times, he surprised me by mentioning Jason John Deere classic with a 19-under-par score. Spieth’s name and how he watched some of The twosome is not the only youngsters the Masters on TV. It got his attention. leading pro golf into the future. The 2013 PGA He even went through the motion of a golf Tour calendar saw 12 players beside Spieth swing and asked if that was the way to do it win for the first time in their career. A pair of (I wasn’t much help since he’s left-handed, 23-year-olds, South Korea’s Noh Seung and but so are Mickelson and Bubba Watson). His Japan’s Hideki Matsuyama, became PGA Tour father played college football and coached for winners in 2014, Seung capturing the Zurich many years so that appears to be Hayden’s Classic of New Orleans at 19-under and Mat- main interest at this time. suyama winning The Memorial Tournament at It could change. Nicklaus once told me in an 13-under-par. interview when asked what age he would recOther first time winners during the 2014- ommend for young kids to start playing golf. 2015 season include 25-year-old Brooks He said “if they want to chase frogs let them. Koepka, Ben Martin and Nick Taylor, both 27, Wait until they show interest.� and Robert Streb, 28. The young guns have them doing just that.
jk
kj
ɧF )JHIMBOET t ɧF 3JWFS t %SJWJOH 3BOHF 1SBDUJDF 1VUUJOH (SFFO t 1SBDUJDF $IJQQJOH (SFFO 1(" 1SPGFTTJPOBMT t 0VUEPPS 1BWJMJPO .VMMJHBO T 'VMM 4FSWJDF 3FTUBVSBOU 'SFF $MVC 4UPSBHF t 1SJWBUF .FFUJOH 4QBDF "WBJMBCMF
4FWJFSWJMMF(PMG DPN
5IF 4FWJFSWJMMF (PMG $MVC 0ME ,OPYWJMMF )JHIXBZ 4FWJFSWJMMF 5/ 'PS HPMG SBUFT WJTJU XXX TFWJFSWJMMFHPMGDMVC DPN 'PS QBDLBHF JOGPSNBUJPO SBUFT DBMM PS FNBJM VT BU HPMG!TFWJFSWJMMFUO PSH
www.teetimespaper.com
May 2015
TEE TIMES
11
Despite rain, Drive for DJ tournament a success By Jenevieve Doerr Tee Times Contributor JOELTON — As the rain came down and his roofless cart sloshed through the wet grass, DJ Adcock had a smile on his face. “Heck, I’m already wet, let’s keep playing!” he said to some of the other 127 players in the Drive for DJ Charity golf tournament at Highland Rim Golf Course. With the help of a Solo Rider, a special golf cart that makes playing the game accessible for individuals with mobility issues, DJ was able to do the thing only months before he had been told would be impossible — play golf. On September 30, 2014, Daniel Adcock’s life changed forever in an instant. Falling 15 feet from a tree stand while hunting, the 22-year-old Adcock shattered vertebra and compressed his spinal cord. After surgery, doctors told the former Martin Methodist golfer he would be paralyzed from the waist down. DJ, as his friends and family call him, grew up around golf, having played his first round when he was 7. In high school he worked on the cart staff at Highland Rim and eventually earned
an athletic scholarship to Martin Methodist University where he excelled and earned accolades as TranSouth Athletic Conference Men’s Golfer of the Week along with several individual honors. DJ’s tragic hunting accident changed all that, until now. With the help of his family, friends and generous sponsors, DJ is on the road to recovery. The Adcocks and the ownership at Highland Rim organized the tournament, which raised $14,000
to help D.J.’s family pay for medical and rehabilitation expenses. DJ and his family would like to thank Highland Rim Golf Course, Anchor Tour, Anchor Fleet, Raffertys, Martin Methodist College Golf Team, A&A Lawncare, Dynamark, Toy and Spencer, Drew’s, Where Pit Happens, Fivestar, Fergusons, Rose Kincade, and many more for their donations and
DJ practices on the range
# 9 Peninsula Green
sponsorships. While the amount raised was a tremendous help, it has only made a dent in the total amount of medical expenses. If you would still like to contribute, please contact Highland Rim’s Pro Shop at 615-746-0400 or via email at info@ highlandrimgolf.com to donate. DJ on his Solo Rider
12
TEE TIMES
May 2015
www.teetimespaper.com
www.teetimespaper.com
May 2015
TEE TIMES
13
14
May 2015
TEE TIMES
www.teetimespaper.com
Welch enjoys his career path at Riverside Tee Times report
Carolina, middle Tennessee has been home for many years. Given his family ties to the game, it’s not Neil Welch is admittedly passionate about golf, and he knows why, not just surprising Welch gravitated to golf as a from a player’s standpoint but from a career choice his freshman year in college. After all, he’d been riding around in golf career standpoint. The assistant pro at Riverside has quickly carts since before he was old enough to become a fixture in the five years since play. “I knew that it would never feel like work joining up with PGA golf professionals Jimmy and Gary Rager, Riverside’s co- and I could remain close to the game I enjoy so much,� he said. owners. Welch’s career in golf began at Oak Their partnership wasn’t by chance. Park Country Club in Chicago. Lifelong family friends, Welch From there, he returned to said the he counts them as a his middle Tennessee roots, second family. making a stop at Bluegrass “A classier and friendly family Country Club and Old Hickory you will never find,� he said. Country Club before landing at A golf gene runs in Welch’s Riverside, which is located on family. About the time Neil the Cumberland Rivers in Old was starting to walk his father, Hickory. Allan, who played collegiately at Welch’s dedication to the Middle Tennessee State, turned game is not lost on Riverside’s their front yard in a full-sized owners. putting green. A nephew, Jay Gary Rager, “Neil is perhaps one of the Welch, plays for Hendersonville PGA Professional and co-owner of most informed people that I High School. Cousins Adam Riverside G.C. know,� Gary Rager said. “My and Scott Welch coach the golf dad, Jimmy and I often speak teams at Clarksville High School of his knowledge, time and time again, we and Ellis Middle School. over hear our golfers here at Riverside ask In addition to his father, Welch credits questions of him. He never fails to deliver Jerry McGraw and Banks Guyton as the the right answer, satisfying the customer.� three men, who introduced, mentored, Gary Rager said Welch’s experience has taught, and encouraged him in golf. been beneficial when it comes to Although born in Wilmington, North
World Class Golf Training! The Middle Tennessee Golf Performance Center is just 30 minutes away !
UĂŠÂŁnĂŠ ÂœÂ?iĂŠ ÂœĂ•Ă€ĂƒiĂŠĂœÂˆĂŒÂ…ĂŠ>ĂŠ
Â…>Â?Â?i˜}ˆ˜}ĂŠ >ĂžÂœĂ•ĂŒ UĂŠ Ă€i>ĂŒĂŠ*Ă€>VĂŒÂˆViĂŠ Ă€i>ĂŠ UĂŠ Ă•Â?Â?ĂŠ Ă€ÂˆĂ›ÂˆÂ˜}ĂŠ,>˜}i UĂŠ-Â…ÂœĂ€ĂŒĂŠ >“iĂŠ Ă€i> UĂŠ7>Â?ÂŽiÀÊ Ă€Âˆi˜`Â?Ăž UĂŠ ˜`ÂˆĂ›Âˆ`Ă•>Â?]ĂŠ Ă€ÂœĂ•ÂŤ]ĂŠEĂŠ Ă•Â˜ÂˆÂœĂ€ĂŠ iĂƒĂƒÂœÂ˜ĂƒĂŠ Ă›>ˆÂ?>LÂ?i
(615) 274-2301 www.championsrun.biz
customer service. “I believe that it is his long experience, having been on staff of the Chicago golf club Oak Park, then at Bluegrass Country Club and after that Old Hickory Country Club,� Rager said. “He is soft-spoken, always going about his duties here with a professional touch. When either of us (Jimmy or Gary) is away, we know that this course and customers are in good hands. His wealth of experience and know-how has him in good standing and we here at Riverside appreciate and reap the benefits.� Welch tries to play at least once a week with various members of Riverside Golf Course, and he enjoys the diversity of skill level he encounters. “What works for one person might not work for another,� he said. “That’s what makes working at Riverside and getting to know so many people that much more fun.� What aspect of the game does he love the most? “The fact that no two shots are ever the same,� he said, grinning. Spoken like someone with plenty of golf experience.
Neil Welch
Yamaha Pro-Assistant Championship
On a beautiful day in Chattanooga, Henrik Simonsen, PGA, and Thomas Smith of The Honors Course won the 2015 Yamaha ProAssistant Championship at Chattanooga Golf and Country Club. The Simonsen-Smith team finished 6-underpar 65 to win $3,000 in the 4-ball stroke play team event. It was a close competition with teams from The Honors Course, Chattanooga Golf & Country Club, The Golf Club, and Oak Ridge Country Club finishing just one stroke behind at 5-under-par 66. Those teams each won $1,162.50. There were an astounding three holes-in-one on No. 5, which was one of the closest-to-the-hole competitions. Brooks West, PGA, Yamaha, Jake Reeves, PGA, of Fairways and Greens, and Andrew Braley, PGA, of GolfTec, each made an ace to receive $100 apiece. On No. 9, Kevin Snell of Henry Horton State Park, won $100 and a Dunning shirt courtesy of Greg Norman & Dunning Golf. Jeremy Cason, PGA, of The Honors
Course, won closest to the hole on No. 13 and received $100. Bruce Etter, PGA, won the final closest-to-the-hole competition on No. 18 and received $100 and a Dunning shirt Courtesy of Greg Norman & Dunning Golf. The Tennessee PGA started a Hole-in-One Club this season giving participants a chance to win more money. With entry fees and added money from the title sponsor - Holein-One USA -- the Hole-in-One U.S.A Holein-One Club has a total a purse of $2,350.
The Middle Tennessee Golf Performance Center
Directions: 1-24E, exit 80 (Hwy 99W, New Salem Rd.) Go 12 miles and turn left onto Mt. Pleasant Rd. Course will be one mile on the left.
(l-r) Brooks West, Yamaha Representative, Henrik Simonsen and Thomas Smith
Holes-In-One: (l-r) Brooks West, Jake Reeves and Andrew Braley
Reeves and West were both members and will split the purse at the end of the year between themselves and anyone else in the club who makes an ace the rest of the year. We will continue to keep you updated on results throughout this year’s tournaments. The Tennessee PGA would like to thank Hole-in-One USA for their support and we would like to remind you that they are the preferred provider for hole-inone coverage.
www.teetimespaper.com
T
May 2015
TEE TIMES
15
Annual Dogwood Classic back at Montgomery Bell State Park Golf Course
he Tennessee Golf Trail has Championship Division trophy, posting started the 2015 golf season a two-day score of 136 (-6). Stuart with a 300-yard drive down Smith won the Senior Division, tallying the heart of the fairway, an a 2-under-par score of 140 for the approach shot landing within five feet, weekend. Be sure to put the Dogwood and a birdie putt that drops right to the on your calendar next year for the bottom of the cup. weekend after the Masters—we will After a brief hiatus, the Annual start the tradition again!’ Dogwood Tournament was revived at In other news, the greens at Henry Montgomery Bell State Park golf course Horton State Park golf course will on April 18 and 19. Despite less-than- soon be converted from Bentgrass optimal weather conditions, it was to Champion Bermuda grass. Golfers a fun weekend full of great golf from across the state and beyond have enjoyed the players and great work by the golf these Champion Bermuda greens at Pickwick Landing, Montgomery Bell, course staff. Montgomery Bell Golf Professional Tims Ford and Harrison Bay State Park Darrel Hartsfield, Hospitality Manager golf courses. Champion Bermuda is the Kelly Hosie and staff were able to optimal greens option for the southern navigate two rain delays to get the tournament in Players practicing prior to their round at Dogwood Classic the books. But when the rain subsided and the clouds opened up, the fairways looked pristine, the Champion Bermuda greens rolled true, and thanks to the rain, golfers were able to take direct aim at the flag sticks on a long, challenging setup. Special thanks to Jeff Kuhns and his region, and will allow golfers to not staff for the wonderful condition of only get a true roll in-season, but yearthe golf course, especially the putting round. Finally, we recently announced that surfaces. John Burch came away with the brand new, environmentally friendly
electric greens mowers are on the trucks and ready to be delivered to Warriors’ Path, Pickwick Landing, Montgomery Bell, Tims Ford and Cumberland Mountain state park golf courses. The new mowers are a huge win for golfers because the equipment makes considerably less noise on the course and they have 20 percent more cutting edges for a pristine cut of the putting surfaces. Not to mention, the mowers will save an additional 8,000 gallons of gasoline, 300 gallons of waste oil and reduce the carbon dioxide output by approximately 160,000 pounds
upon being fully implemented across the Tennessee Golf Trail. This is a huge win for our golfers and our environment. The 2015 season on the Tennessee Golf Trail has started off with exciting news, both for the present and for the future. Now that the weather seems to be cooperating, please go out and enjoy one of our Tennessee Golf Trail courses. As an extra value for all of our customers, you can now get an official USGA Handicap at any of our Tennessee Golf Trail courses and use any them as your home course. Ask our friendly staff how to apply and carry your own official USGA handicap as a member of the Tennessee Golf Trail.
Dogwood Classic Results
Championship Division:
1 2 T3 T3 T3 John Burch (l) Darrell Hartsfield Head Golf Professional, Montgomery Bell (r)Montgomery Bell (r)
Stuart Smith (l) Darrell Hartsfield Head Golf Professional, Montgomery Bell (r)
1 2 3 4
John Burch Steve Reigle Andrew Von Lossow Rob Garland Phillip Lee
Senior Division:
Stuart Smith Tony Meadows William Lane Craig McElhaney
136 137 138 138 138 140 143 144 145
1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5
First Flight:
Ryan Terry Joey Epley Scotty Hudson Ben Robertson Pat Wright
Second Flight:
Neal Crowe Tyler Turpin Brad Hartsfield Mickey Turner Mark Hartsfield
146 148 148 149 150 152 156 157 158 175
16
TEE TIMES
May 2015
Worthwhile teaching By Steve Kirkpatrick One of my favorite quotes is from Harvey Penick, author of The Little Red Book. Harvey worked with the likes of Ben Crenshaw, Tom Kite and hundreds of other professionals and amateurs. I admire his common sense approach to teaching and its simplicity. He said, “Lessons are not to take the place of practice, but to make practice worthwhile.�
In my opinion this is exactly what the purpose of what a golf lesson should be, so that afterwards the student understands what he or she is to work on during their practice sessions. They are now ingraining a correct movement or action rather that further ingraining a poor one. Simplicity and communication are the two traits of an excellent teacher. I work on only one thing at a time during a lesson with a
Steve Kirkpatrick student. My manner of communicate with the student ensures they clearly understand not only the movement, but also the purpose of the action. The student has a more enjoyable experience and improves faster. This is what the art of teaching is all about.
www.teetimespaper.com
www.teetimespaper.com
May 2015
TEE TIMES
17
Willis, Kok highlight SunTrust State Open field Tee Times report Garrett Willis, the 2013 champion, headlines the field for the 2015 SunTrust State Open Championship. A field of 156 players will tee it up in the 67th renewal of the Tennessee Golf Association’s marquee event being played for the first time at The Club at Fairvue Plantation in Gallatin on May 1921. Through nine qualifying events, the field has been trimmed from 350 entrants with only the Monday qualifier remaining to set the complete field. The event serves as the unofficial opening to the Tennessee Golf Association competition season. “It’s always great to kick off our season with the SunTrust Open,” said Adam McCormick, the TGA’s director of men’s competitions. “With a great venue like Fairvue Plantation hosting its first ever State Open, we are very excited to introduce such a great facility to the top players in our state.” Steven Fox, the defending champion who won the 2012 U.S. Amateur before turning professional, is not in the field. Willis is a two-time Tennessee State Open champ and owns one PGA Tour victory and two Web.com victories. Other familiar faces are in the field including
Brentwood’s Johan Kok, who qualified for the PGA Championship in 2014 and Tim Jackson of Germantown. Players will encounter a Fairvue Plantation layout that features bentgrass putting surfaces and zoysia grass fairways. The Bill Bergin design opened in 2004 and stretches to 7,116 yards from the black tees. It’s a par 72. Cary Collins is the head golf professional. The first Tennessee State Open Championship was played in 1949. Pat Abbott of Memphis won with a score of 211 at Belle Meade Country Club in Nashville. Mason Rudolph is the leader with a total of six State Open Championships. Gibby Gilbert holds the record for the most consecutive championships, 3, from 1988, 1989, and 1990. The SunTrust State Open Championship is one of 18 state championships that the Tennessee Golf Association conducts annually. In 1914, the TGA was organized at Memphis Country Club as an association of private clubs. The objective of the Association, as stated in its Constitution, “shall be to promote the game of golf in Tennessee.” From these small origins, the TGA has become an association which now includes over 200 member clubs, courses and organizations, comprised of over 32,000 individuals from across the state. For more information on the TGA, go to tngolf. org/tga.
2014 - Steven Fox
Johan Kok
2013 - Garrett Willis
18
TEE TIMES
May 2015
Equipment Corner Sun Mountain’s new push cart folds smaller, easier The new Reflex golf push cart from Sun Mountain folds and opens easier, has a smaller folded footprint and weighs less than other golf carts. With a new, innovative folding process, Reflex is arguably the easiest cart on the market to fold and un-
fold. At 51 cubic inches when folded and only 17 pounds, Reflex might fold the smallest and be the lightest push cart, too. Thanks to modern engineering, Sun Mountain Reflex folds into a small 25x15x11 footprint and then easily opens into a full-sized golf push cart with a wide, secure stance. The deluxe accessory console includes a scorecard holder, two padded valuables trays, golf ball storage, and a beverage holder. Sun Mountain’s E-Z Latch System on the Reflex cart simplifies folding and unfolding the cart and adjusting the handle height. The handle on Reflex adjusts up and down
www.teetimespaper.com
innovations, including the first lightweight golf bag and modern stand bag, have made it the top golf bag company in North America. Within golf outerwear, Sun Mountain redefined golf-specific performance first with the windshirt, then fleece, and again with its four-way stretch, waterproof, and breathable rainwear. The Sun Mountain Speed Cart® golf push cart transformed walking carts and created an entirely new category of golf products. Sun Mountain’s “Ahead of Time Design” motto drives the company to continually design and refine golf equipment.
and additionally has individual handles with 180 degrees of adjustability for further ergonomic fine-turning. Reflex also features a handle-mounted parking brake and an umbrella mount on the handle to hold an open umbrella over golfer and clubs. Reflex is available in four color combinations: black, silver, black/lime, and charcoal/red. Reflex carts are available now with a retail price of $259. Call 800-2279224 or go to sunmountain.com to find your nearest retailer. For 30 years Sun Mountain has been a pioneer in the golf industry, revolutionizing golf bags, golf outerwear and golf carts. Sun Mountain’s many
Imperial launches new cooling technology Imperial Headwear launched a revolutionary line of cooling products, powered by Coolcore technology at the recent PGA Merchandise Show. “Imperial’s new cooling technology has the potential to change the headwear business,” said Laura Robinson, Director of Retail at Pinehurst Resort. “The Pinehurst team saw their demonstration and we were all amazed at how this can be incorporated into headwear designs. Imperial impresses me with their innovation in the accessory category.” Coolcore provides a chemical-free cooling solution that goes beyond traditional moisture management
fabrics or evaporative cooling technologies that typically rely on chemicals. Coolcore technology is 100% free of chemicals, polymers, gels, crystals or phase changing materials, ensuring all Coolcore benefits never wash out or degrade. “This is the next generation of performance fabrics,” said Mike Wrightson, General Manager at Imperial Headwear. “Coolcore has unbelievable fabric innovations that not only wick moisture, but also lower the surface temperature significantly. This will be a game changer in golf head-
wear with strong consumer appeal.” Coolcore fabrics deliver three distinct functions: • Wicking: To move sweat away from your body. • Moisture Transportation: To avoid saturation and accelerate drying. • Regulated Evaporation: For cooling effect. The result is up to 30% lower surface temperatures, drier garments that do not cling or saturate, healthier chemical-free usage, and zero degradation of the cooling effect over time or washing.
The proprietary Coolcore technologies exploit the body’s own sweat, or added moisture, to achieve cooling. The sophisticated design means that the evaporation rate is regulated and, as a result, the cooling effect of “evaporative cooling” is significantly higher than in conventional materials. Coolcore fabrics are the first product worldwide to be awarded the Hohenstein Quality Label “Innovative Technology - Cooling Power.” For more information or to place an order for Imperial powered by Coolcore products, call 1-800-800-9501916.
May 2015
www.teetimespaper.com
TEE TIMES
19
Darryl Hammond Benefit Scramble Darryl “Ironman” Hammond is an Arena Football League (AFL) legend – his sixteen-year career (1991-2006) is the longest in AFL history. Playing “ironman football” on both sides of the ball, Darryl was both a wide receiver and defensive back, and considered one of the best vertical leapers in the game. He also ranks in the top 20 in numerous AFL career statistics. He suited up for six different AFL franchises, including both incarnations of the Nashville Kats. In 2012, Darryl was named one of the 25 greatest players in AFL History as part of the league’s 25th anniversary celebration. Prior to his professional career, Darryl was an all-state football player at Essex (VA) High School and played college football for the University of Virginia, where he was the team’s leading receiver in 1985. He transitioned from wide receiver to strong safety for his senior collegiate season in 1987, recording 61 tackles and earning an honorable mention to the All-ACC team. Always an avid golfer, Darryl graduated with a Master’s Degree in Turf Management from Penn State University. He has also appeared in several major Hollywood productions – he was Michael Irvin’s stunt double in 2004’s The Longest Yard, played Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver Harold Carmichael in 2006’s Invincible, and appeared in the role of a volleyball coach in 2009’s Hannah Montana - The Movie. He has served as an assistant football coach at Ensworth High School in Nashville, TN and a STARS counselor as well as an assistant football coach for Independence High School in Thompsons Station, TN. Darryl and his wife Robin have three children: daughters Darryn and Sydney, and son Todd.
Darryl , daughters, Darryn and Sydney, wife Robin and son Todd
NFL Hall of Famer Ross Browner, Darryl Hammond, former Kats players Eddie Khayat, James Baron, Robert Gaddy, and Kats Coach Joe Campbell
Champions Junior Golf Tour opens fifth year Tee Times report The Champions Junior Golf Tour kicked off its fifth year in Knoxville with a tournament at Three Ridges Golf Course. Participants ranged in age from 5 to 15 and came from Knoxville, Maryville, Lenoir City, Coalfield and even as far as Virgie, Kentucky. The CJGT (championsjrgolf.com) was founded in 2010 to provide affordable, local opportunities for boys and girls to compete in tour-style golf tournaments. With an emphasis on helping junior golfers prepare for the next level of competition, our members have fun learning a game they can enjoy for a lifetime. Within two years, the tour became one of the most well respected junior tour programs in the Southeast. With this growth, Champions Junior Golf enthusiastically partnered with the Hurricane Junior Golf Tour in 2013 toprovide even more opportunities and events for area junior golfers. Through this partnership, the Champions Junior Golf Tour caters to the player between the ages of 5 and 15 to prepare them for the next step – the Hurricane Junior Golf Tour (HJGT.) The HJGT (hjgt.org) provides multi-day, nationally ranked 36and 54- hole events at longer yardages for players ages 11-18. For those between the ages of 11-15 not quite ready for that level of competition, CJGT will prepare you. Since everything is more fun with competition, the CJGT is a great avenue for young players to n develop their golf skills and learn life lessons and build character through experiences on the course. Mem-
bership in the Champions Junior Golf Tour is open to boys and girls of all skill levels between 5 and 15. Family involvement can instill a love for the game as well as confidence in a junior golfer. It’s this
Boys 12-15: Fielden Bowman of Knoxville, TN 2nd Place; Jeremy Jones of Knoxville,TN, 1st Place; Justin Stackhouse of Knoxville, TN, 3rd Place
Girls 8 & Under: Stella Hmielewski of Maryville,TN, 1st Place; Girls 9-11: Kate Faulkner of Knoxville, TN, 1st Place
family involvement that will ultimately help grow the game of golf. Therefore, the tour encourages players in every diBoys 9-11: Ian Neff of Heiskell, TN 2nd place; Alex Barton of vision to have a caddie if they Lenoir City, TN 4th Place; Ben Johnston of Farragut, TN 3rd desire. Place; Jackson Hughey of Lenoir City, 1st Place Currently based in Knoxville, Tennessee, the CJGT conducts receiving recognition for their talents and efsingle-day 9- and 18-hole tournaments in forts in well-run events. Greater Knoxville/East Tennessee with With one low annual membership fee, playhopes of adding more cities throughout the ers can choose from numerous events held year. These tournaments allow junior golf- from March through November. Points will ers a unique opportunity to play in a com- be awarded to the top 10 finishers in each petitive environment from age appropriate event leading up to the naming of a Tour yardages while advancing their skills and Champion in each age division each year.
Thank you to all the participants of the Darryl Hammond Benefit Scramble. Through your generous donations, over $47,000 was raised for the Hammond family as Darryl battles ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease). Darryl is a local football legend, having starred for many years with the Arena Football League’s Nashville Kats, and is loved and respected by all who know him.
20
TEE TIMES
May 2015
www.teetimespaper.com
Titans of the TGA was labor of love for Dortch Tee Times report
in their area of expertise. It didn’t take long to realize that 40 profiles weren’t Chris Dortch’s comprehensive look at enough. And, the five-person committee 50 people who helped shape the Tennes- that played a part in the selection process see Golf Association’s first 100 years was didn’t want to make the book just about about more than just writing the book Ti- players. tans of the TGA. “So many people over the years have It was a labor of love. played a part in the TGA’s evolution, from The book was published in 2014 in con- businessmen, to greens superintendents junction with the centennial anniversary to people like Lynne Howd, whose work of the TGA. In addition to chronicling in the TGA office is vital to the orgathose who shaped what is now the TGA, nization has never been spotlighted,” Dortch’s book is a history of the organi- Dortch said. zation. He said as the centennial was apThe TGA selected 50 people from proaching he wanted a project to pitch to varying backgrounds to profile in Tithe TGA board of directors that would pay tans of the TGA. There are profiles on tribute. great players such as Dr. Cary Mid“I’ve covered golf in Tennessee for more dlecoff, Lew Oehmig, Betty Probasthan 30 years, and I know many of the co and Sarah LeBrun Ingram, along board members and great players around with administrators and benefacthe state,” Dortch said. “I’ve done a lot of tors like Vince Gill and The Honors work for the TGA. My work Course’s founder Jack was a known commodity. So it Lupton, whose incredible gift alwas not a hard sell to get the lowed Golf House Tennessee to project approved. (TGA execubecome a reality, There also are tive director) Matt (Vanderprofiles on golf course architects pool) liked it immediately, and like Donald Ross, golf profesTim Jackson was an early prosionals who were instrumental ponent of it.” in forging a cooperative culture Dortch said the book’s inithat Tennessee still benefits from tial idea was to focus on 40 today, and superintendents. Matt Vanderpool people who influenced the “The book was a lot of fun to direction of the organization write, but it was also my most
difficult book project ever,” said Dortch, who has authored six books. “We gave ourselves a tight deadline and I worked hard to meet it. Actually, so many people helped me, and they’re all thanked in the acknowledgments of the book. It was amazing how many people cooperated
a cooperative culture that transformed Tennessee golf forever. If you think you know and understand what these pioneers did, or what many in this book continue to do, than think again. Page after
with their time, and in some cases, personal mementos, such as pictures, to help us get the project done. “In the end, it was one of those projects where you find yourself thinking ‘how did I pull that off?’ Seldom has an idea of mine been so perfectly executed, and like I said, I have many people to thank for that. An author’s name is on the front of a book, but a small army goes into the process.” “I found myself so intrigued and awed by Chris Dortch’s coverage of these Chris Dortch at 50 individuals,” said Carol Hall of Tee work. Covering Times. “Cover to cover beginning with golf in Tennessee the foreword by Tim Jackson, a Titan 30 plus years himself, then having this book dedicated to Dick Horton, The Visionary, really goes to the heart of the matter. page, I realized what these 50 people con“The Tennessee Golf Association dedi- tributed. I cannot say enough about trying cates this book to Dick Horton whose ex- to get a copy of this book.” ceptional vision, outstanding leadership To order the book, go to and ability to build relationships fostered www.TitansoftheTGA.com
www.teetimespaper.com
May 2015
TEE TIMES
21
TaylorMade Performance Labs Offer Tour Issue Equipment and Tour Level Fittings in Nashville Nashville Golf & Athletic Club and Taylormade Performance Labs are excited to announce a brand new partnership. Taylormade Performance Labs have moved their custom tour van to the practice facility at Nashville Golf. Taylormade wanted to provide area golfers access to the best club fitting experience and custom options available in the industry. Nashville Golf is the only course in the Southeast that will house this exclusive Taylormade tour van service on site. This service
Stephen Fox(l) watches Master Club Fitter, Eric O’Brien work on his driver in the Tour van
is open to the public. Taylormade has signed on master club fitter/technician Eric O’Brien. O’Brien attended the San Diego Golf Academy (now Golf Academy of America) while building his overall knowledge of golf course operations. O’Brien was employed at one of the most well-known and noteworthy Troon courses in the valley, Southern Dunes. While at the academy his professors soon uncovered O’Brien’s extraordinary talent in club repair and fitting and he was recognized as top in his class. O’Brien moved to Nashville in July 2009 and began working in golf retail and club repair with Golf Headquarters in Franklin. He became even more
Jeff Gilner, Master Club Fitter, Stephen Fox, 2012 U.S. Amateur Champion, 2013 Tennessee Amateur, and 2014 SunTrust Tennessee State Open, and Eric O’/Brien, Master Club Fitter & Club Tech check out Fox’s driver
known for his skills in the making and fitting of custom golf clubs. He provided club repair services on all types of woods, irons and putters, including reshafting, re-gripping, fitting (lengthening or
Doc Higgins (L) Bluegrass Yacht & CC, shakes hands with Jeff Gilner, eager to get his set of TaylorMade irons
shortening), setting loft and lie, and much more. O’Brien became an assistant professional and began his PGA apprenticeship at The Governor’s Club, and he
Tim Shaw, former Titan , prepares to hit his TaylorMade Aeroburner driver. Jeff Gilner, Master Fitter, also helped in the selection of a TaylorMade Fairway wood
eventually joined the Taylormade Performance Labs. O’Brien is now available to offer a tour level fitting and custom building of all TaylorMade equipment at Taylormade Performance Labs, located at 1703 Crockett Springs Trail, Brentwood. To schedule an appointment, email eric@taylorEric O’Brien works with Governor’s madepl.com or call Club member, Donnie Williams, on getting his new TaylorMade R15 driver 205-525-6636.
Castles, Culture, Golf Unique European Travel Small Group Guided Or Self-Guided Call 231-881-0971 Or Visit uniqueeuropeantravel.com SPECIAL DISCOUNT FOR TEE TIME READERS
22
TEE TIMES
May 2015
www.teetimespaper.com
“Amen” for Stonebridge Golf Club improvements By Larry Rea Tee Times Contributor
For a course that has been part of the Memphis Metro golfing experience for more than four decades, Stonebridge Golf Club remains geared for the future in 2015 with multiple renovations and improvements since Golf Nation LLC took over operation of the course in May 2013. Can we get an “amen” from the course’s ownership group of Robert Mears and Mark Lovell? They aren’t just course owners. They are related – Lovell is married to Mears’ sister, Linda. To keep things in the family, Amber Lovell, who is married to Mark’s son, Josh, operates one of the area’s top catering services based out of Stonebridge GC. You might say “amen” ties into the roots of the course, which was designed in the early 1970s by George Cobb, who is most well-known for “Amen Corner” at Augusta National. When Golf Nation LLC purchased the course from Textron Financial Mears and Lovell announced they were committed to improving the overall total golf experience by making more improvements to the clubhouse facilities, customer service and the overall look of the course. “Our market share at Stonebridge has remained strong and is steadily gaining momentum due in part to the renovations and improvements over the last four years,” said Eric Howard, SGC’s director of sales and marketing. “With the number of courses to select from we have had to raise the bar in our level of guest services to compete to keep our share of the available revenues.” It is, he said, a “constant battle of supply and
demand between both public and private facilities to attract new guests, increase revenues and reduce unnecessary expenses while at the same time maintaining a high level of guest satisfaction.” Guest satisfaction rates at the top of Stonebridge’s must-do list. In an effort to attract more millennial golfers, Stonebridge launched a new golf initiative using software from Fore Reservation, along with other new social media outlets, Howard said. Stonebridge, which expects to host 50plus events this year, was initially laid out from a championship “forward golf” style point of view. However, unlike most of the other public links-style courses in the area, Stonebridge’s layout features no two holes paralleling each other. In other words, from the time you tee off until you finish you’ll see only the backs of the playing group in front of you instead of dodging errant tee shots from other holes. Plus, Stonebridge now has five sets
of tees, including Super Senior Tees that give golfers a different view and playability factor from each set of tee boxes. “At Stonebridge, you cannot bring out the
L-R: Jeremy Wilkinson – Head PGA Gold Professional, Robert Mears - GM and Owner, Amber Lovell - Food and Beverage Director/Pink Flamingo Catering, Eric Howard - Director of Sales and Marketing, Dan Brabec - Course Superintendent
driver on every hole but instead are forced to make smarter club selection decisions to place the ball for a better scoring advantage,” Howard said. Obviously, the staff at Stonebridge has been busy. According to Mears, who is also the course’s general manager, recent improvements include: • Renovated the spacious clubhouse with new LED lighting, doors, hardware and media centers, plus gallons and gallons of new paint. • Remodeled the restroom facilities, which included granite vanities, new mirrors, lighting, updated shower facilities and new plumbing fixtures. • In the cafe and lounge area, there have also been updates which include new lighting, cabinets and granite countertops. • Installed new full-service kitchen equipment to provide a full catering service for social events. • The Pro Shop was refreshed as well to reflect current golfing equipment, accessories and apparel for both men and women by the top-selling brands in the market. • Updated the point of sale software and have added social media outlets for the
community’s convenience to keep abreast of upcoming events. • The maintenance department has acquired newer equipment to provide a better golfing product for our golfing community and continue to update and improve the golf cart fleet. We continue to repair and replace structures, golf course signage and landscaping to take Stonebridge to the next level. Among the major events set for 2015 at Stonebridge GC are the Memphis Pro AM on June 1; Sned’s Tennessee Junior Golf Tour on June 2 (www.snedstour.org) and Arlington Junior Clinic (all ages with two sessions) on June 8-11. Here is a link to our other clinics which will be led by the course’s resident PGA Golf Professional, Jeremy Wilkinson: www.stonebridgegolf.com/clinics/. “We also have and are hosting many private events including weddings and receptions, class reunions, etc.,” Howard said. “We also have a new website (stonebridgegolf.com), which includes a tee time booking engine for both club members and the general public. Links to our tee time reservation system will soon be available as well on the Stonebridge Facebook page, a mobile website, and the Golf Now website.” Howard will join host Eric Hasseltine on ESPN 92.9 in Memphis on Wednesday afternoons twice a month. Stonebridge GC will also in conjunction with the radio show do a two-person 9-hole scramble on Wednesdays. One more thing – new for 2015 is a curbside bag drop service. “Customers are loving this,” Howard said. Stonebridge Golf Club is located at 3049 Davies Plantation in the Memphis suburb of Lakeland. For additional information call (901) 382-1886. Larry Rea is an avid golfer who plays weekly in the Bartlett Senior League and also is the host of a weekly radio show (Outdoors with Larry Rea) on ESPN-790 AM in Memphis. He was inducted into the Tennessee Sports Writers Hall of Fame in 2009.
May 2015
www.teetimespaper.com
TEE TIMES
23
Scott, Pearce among 4 Tennessee Golf Hall of Fame inductees Tee Times report FRANKLIN, Tenn. — Maggie Scott, a winner of 10 Tennessee Golf Association tournaments and 12 times the TGA Senior Player of the Year, and historian Gene Pearce head the 2015 Tennessee Golf Hall of Fame Class. Entering the Hall along with Scott and Pearce are two people without whom the TGA as it currently exists might not have been possible. Horace F. Smith, who served in the Civil War as a drummer boy and later became the president of Nashville Golf and Country Club, the Western Golf Association and the Southern Golf Association is credited with creating the first Tennessee amateur golf tournament, which in turn led to the formation of the TGA in 1914. Likewise, Edyth Duffield is credited with being the driving force behind the Women’s Tennessee Golf Association, an organization that later joined forces with the TGA. An accomplished player, Duffield also won the Women’s Tennessee Amateur.
Aces
The 2015 inductees run the gamut of accomplishments. Scott, of Charleston, Tenn., won her first state tournament, the Women’s Amateur, in 1994. After reaching senior status, she dominated the TGA Senior Women’s Amateur, winning from 2001-03, 2005-08, 2010 and 2012. Scott earned state Senior Player of the Year honors in 1999, 2001-08, 2010 and 2012. Pearce, who began his professional career as a sports writer for the Jackson Sun and Tennessean, waited until retirement to put all his energy into documenting his home state’s golf history. His first project was the definitive The History of Tennessee Golf 1894-2001, 494 pages and 368,334 words in all. Pearce was credited with uncovering numerous events, tournament winners and colorful characters that otherwise may have been lost to history, among them his fellow hall of fame honorees Duffield and Smith. Since publishing The History of Tennessee Golf 1894-2001, Pearce has written several other books, including the history of the Southern Golf Association and the
Vanderbilt Legends Club:
Steve Hunt, No. 9 South, 162 yards, 7-wood Joe Moore, No. 16, 133 yards, 6-iron
Bear Trace:
Ed Beavers, No. 18, 140 yards, 9-iron
Horace Smith
Edyth Duffield
history of famed Colonial Country Club in Memphis. His work editing the annual Tennessee Golf Almanac has been invaluable in helping document the year in golf, shining a spotlight on a former state champion and filling in the blanks with missing state championship results. The 2015 induction dates, locations and details will be announced at a later date. About the Tennessee Golf Hall of Fame: The Tennessee Golf Hall of Fame was founded in 1990 by the Tennessee Golf Foundation. Charter members of the Ten-
Maggie Scott
Gene Pearce
nessee Golf Hall of Fame include Dr. Cary Middlecoff, Lou Graham, Betty Probasco, Mason Rudolph, Lew Oehmig and Dudley “Waxo” Green. Since 1990, a total of 38 individuals have been elected to the hall. The Tennessee Golf Hall of Fame is located at Golf House Tennessee in Franklin, which also serves as the home office for the Tennessee Golf Foundation, Tennessee Golf Association, Tennessee Section PGA, Volunteer Chapter of Club Managers’ Association and Tennessee Turfgrass Association.
Tee Up Your Next Event With Us
Brentwood CC:
Pete Nofi, No. 16, 184 yards, 5-iron
Golf House TN Little Course: David Bratton, No. 4, 83 yards, PW Luke Fontechia, No. 7, 97yards, GW
Long Hollow:
Corey Gentry, No. 2, 151 yards, 8-iron Michael Barnard, No. 11, 131 yards, PW
Kings Creek:
Gary Wellock, No. 10, 165 yards, 9-hybrid
Nashville Golf & Athletics: Cai Klump, No. 14, 147 yards, 9-iron
Luke Fontechia (kneeling) had a hole in on # 7 at the Little Course. Witnessed by (l-r) Zane Johnson, Will Barrett and Bradford Smith
Call today to learn more.
615-458-6800
Old Hickory:
Phil (Stonewall) Sweeney, No 2., 158 yards, 6-iron
Percy Warner GC:
Serene Surroundings | Flexible Function Space for up to 500 Award-Winning Catering | Complimentary Parking
Gerald Henderson, No. 8, 165 yards
Scenic View:
John Miller, No. 1, 150 yards, Bomber #3
The Grove:
Mark Enderle, No. 3, 155 yards, 8-iron
Two Rivers:
Scott Mitoras, No. 8, 148 yards, 5-iron
Social Events • Weddings • Corporate Events • Retreats & Team Building • Golf Outings Gearld Henderson’s part time job is a starter at Percy Warner G.C. and on Saturday, April 25th, Gerald recorded his 13th ace on No. 8, 165 yards, YES, you heard right.
Gaylord Springs Golf Links | 18 Springhouse Lane, Nashville, TN 37214
GaylordSprings.com
24
TEE TIMES
May 2015
www.teetimespaper.com